Flood in Sokoto state displaces over 1,600 residents

In a devastating event, floods have displaced no fewer than 1,664 individuals across four communities in Gada Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The floods were triggered by a heavy downpour on July 17, 2024.

A statement issued by the Information Officer of the Sokoto Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Abdullahi Ghani, detailed the extensive damage caused by the floods. Several hectares of farmland were destroyed, and a significant number of livestock, including sheep and goats, perished.

The affected communities include Dantudu, Balakozo, Gidan Tudu, and Tsitse. The assessment conducted by officials from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and SEMA revealed the following impact:

– Dan Tudu: 62 houses and 71 households affected

– Balakozo (Tsitse Ward): 33 houses and 48 households affected

– Gidan Tudu: 38 houses and 52 households affected

– Tsitse town: 68 houses and 89 households affected

This brings the total number of people affected in these areas to 1,664.

The recent flooding event highlights the recurring challenge Nigeria faces with seasonal floods, which have caused significant displacement and damage in the past, notably in 2012, 2018, 2020, and 2022.

READ ALSO: List: FG identifies 94 towns in 22 states at risk of severe flooding

The Federal Government, through the Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salako, had previously warned that 94 towns were at risk of flooding from July 16 to July 20, 2024, due to expected heavy rainfall.

The non-governmental organisation Safe and Better Nigeria has urged both federal and state governments to take proactive measures to mitigate the impact of future floods, emphasizing the importance of learning from past incidents.

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